Some 30,000 people are expected to attend Friday when Coeur d’Alene launches the holiday season in style. The 18th Annual Lighting Ceremony Parade begins at 5 p.m., followed by caroling and the simultaneous lighting of candles held by thousands of people in the crowd. The evening will culminate in a fireworks display over Lake Coeur d’Alene. In 2007, the Christmas celebration was featured on Good Morning America, which picked Coeur d’Alene as one of 15 cities nationwide with the best holiday light displays/Alison Boggs, SR. More here.

Question: Has it become a tradition for you -- as it has my family -- to kick off the holiday season by attending the annual winter parade, Hagadone Hospitality lighting ceremony, and Festival of Trees? If not, how do you kick off your holiday season?